The Torrijos-Carter Treaties: A Historical Overview

On September 7, 1977, a significant milestone in international diplomacy and U.S.-Latin American relations was achieved with the signing of the Torrijos-Carter Treaties. These treaties were pivotal in transferring control of the Panama Canal from the United States to Panama, marking a new era in the sovereignty and self-determination of Panama.

Background

The Panama Canal, completed in 1914, was a monumental engineering feat that significantly shortened maritime travel by connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Initially, the canal was controlled by the United States under the terms of the Hay-Bunau-Varilla Treaty of 1903, which granted the U.S. perpetual rights to the canal zone. This arrangement, however, was a source of tension and resentment in Panama, as it was seen as an infringement on the country’s sovereignty.

Key Figures

• Omar Torrijos: The de facto leader of Panama, Torrijos was instrumental in negotiating the treaties. He was a nationalist who sought to regain control of the canal for Panama.
• Jimmy Carter: The 39th President of the United States, Carter played a crucial role in the negotiation and signing of the treaties. His administration was committed to improving relations with Latin America and addressing historical grievances.

The Treaties

The Torrijos-Carter Treaties consisted of two separate agreements:

1. The Panama Canal Treaty: This treaty stipulated that the United States would gradually relinquish control of the canal to Panama, culminating in full Panamanian control by December 31, 1999. It also ensured the neutrality of the canal, allowing ships of all nations to use it under equal terms.

2. The Neutrality Treaty: This treaty guaranteed the permanent neutrality of the Panama Canal. It allowed the United States to defend the canal against any threat that might interfere with its continued operation and neutrality.

Significance and Aftermath

The signing of the Torrijos-Carter Treaties was a landmark event with several significant implications:

• Improved U.S.-Latin American Relations: The treaties were seen as a step towards rectifying historical inequalities and improving diplomatic relations between the United States and Latin American countries.
• Panamanian Sovereignty: The treaties were a triumph for Panamanian nationalism and sovereignty, allowing Panama to control a critical asset within its territory.
• Economic and Strategic Impact: The transfer of the canal had economic implications for both nations and ensured the continued strategic importance of the canal in global trade.

The treaties faced considerable opposition in the United States, with critics concerned about the loss of strategic control. Nonetheless, they were ratified by the U.S. Senate in 1978, and the gradual transfer of control proceeded as planned.

Conclusion

The Torrijos-Carter Treaties stand as a testament to the power of diplomacy and negotiation in resolving complex international issues. By addressing longstanding grievances and ensuring the fair and neutral operation of the Panama Canal, these treaties helped pave the way for a more equitable and cooperative relationship between the United States and Panama.